Building plans application forms Download the three forms below for building applications. Print them out and fill them in, then submit them to the Development Planning Department counter on the ground floor of the Metro Centre in Braamfontein.

ANY new building and any alteration that adds on to or changes the structure of an existing building must be approved by the City.

Who has to submit building plans?The short answer is everyone. Any new building and any alteration that adds on to or changes the structure of an existing building must go to the City's (Planning) Development Management Department for approval.

If you redecorate your kitchen, or replaster your house, you don't need permission, because you haven't moved any walls around or altered the drainage system.

But if you make a change to the structure, for example, add on a carport, or even just move the front door, you do need permission. When you submit a building plan for approval it is essential that you make sure that you have complied with the zoning regulations of the Town Planning Scheme.

What if someone fails to submit a plan?

If you've chosen to build without having the plans approved, a building inspector is entitled to enter your property and order construction to stop immediately. He could even obtain a court order for the structure to be demolished, at your expense, and you would be liable for legal costs as well. In serious cases, you could be fined or sent to prison.

What if no building inspector notices your illegal alterations? They could come back to haunt you years later - when you try to sell the house and the prospective buyer asks to see approved plans.

Where can I get an application form?You can get application forms online (see box on right) or from the building plan submission counters on the ground floor of the Metro Centre, 158 Loveday Street, Braamfontein, between 8am and 3pm.

How do I submit the plan?

You submit the completed forms, together with the building plans and supporting documentation to the same counter on the ground floor of the Metro Centre, 158 Loveday Street, Braamfontein, between 8am and 3pm.